The Indelible Bonobo Experience

Judge Peter Bowers told Richard Rochford: ‘It takes a huge amount of courage as far as I can see for someone to burgle someone else’s house. I wouldn’t have the nerve. Awarding burglars medals for their bravery: Cartoon by Gary for the Daily Mail ‘Yet somehow, bolstered by drugs and desperation, you were prepared to do that.’ The judge added: ‘I don’t think anyone would benefit from sending you to prison today. We’d all just feel a bit easier that a burglar had been taken off the streets.’ Giving Rochford a suspended sentence, linked to community service and a drugs rehabilitation programme, the judge said he was prepared to ‘take a chance’ on him even though he conceded: ‘I might get pilloried for it.’ (via He who dares, burgles | Mail Online)

In a sea of smiling, young faces and black graduation robes at Thursday’s University of Toronto Convocation Hall ceremonies, one person stood out: the serious young man with the red, floppy brimmed hat, long brown hair and red square pinned to his gown. He stood out even more when he advanced toward the podium and had words with a marshal who wanted to know why he was carrying a sign that said “no’’ and suggested he not go further with it. But after a few awkward seconds, while the announcer waited for the small drama to be played out, the young man’s name was announced and Michael Vipperman went up to the podium, where various U of T officials and other dignitaries were seated. He turned and faced the audience, held up his “no’’ sign and said, “I hereby renounce this degree.’’ (via Toronto News: U of T graduate refuses degree in convocation protest - thestar.com)

Wow! what a guy!